Handies Douzo is confirmed as one of the restaurants to open at the new PAGEWOOD development, Houston’s East Downtown (EaDo). The Houston-based real estate owner, operator, and developer announced the lease agreement with the popular Houston-based, chef-driven handroll and sushi concept via a recent press release.

“Known for its intimate counter-style seating and curated omakase experiences, Handies Douzo specializes in fresh nori-wrapped handrolls (temaki), crudos, and sashimi, with signature dishes like otoro sashimi and ume masu crudos,” the press release reads.

“Handies Douzo will occupy 2,000 square feet, marking the project’s first new retail tenant and underscoring East Blocks’ focus on curated, chef-driven dining that brings distinctive culinary energy to the district.”

PAGEWOOD recently closed on construction financing for Phase 1 of the project, acquiring two warehouse properties at 1107 Hutchins Street and 2202 Dallas Street, which will anchor the first phase of development.

Handies Douzo will occupy 2,000 square feet on the east side of 1107 Hutchins. Phase 1 is slated to wrap up by August 2026.

“East Blocks reflects a long-term belief in EaDo and the kind of place it’s becoming,” Managing Principal of PAGEWOOD, Mat Volz, said in the press release.

“As the project has evolved, our commitment to that vision has only strengthened. Breaking ground on Phase 1 is an exciting step forward, particularly as this neighborhood prepares to welcome the world. With the FIFA Fan Festival taking place just steps from East Blocks and bringing thousands of visitors daily to EaDo, we see this project playing a meaningful role in that energy and in the long-term evolution of the district.”

At the helm of the Japanese eatery are Patrick Pham and Daniel Lee. Both were part of the Uchi Restaurant team for several years and are part of the  Duckstache Hospitality Group. What Now Houston reached out to Pham and Lee for additional details on the upcoming opening, but did not hear back by the time of this publication.

“We’ve been very intentional about where we grow, and East Blocks immediately stood out,” the Handies Douzo co-owner said in the press release.
“There’s an authenticity to EaDo and a strong sense of community that aligns with our brand. We’re excited to be part of a project focused on creating an energetic, walkable destination.”
Handies Douzo is anticipated to open on the 1107 Hutchins Street side of the new EaDo property by this summer.
Handies Douzo is Slated to Open in the New East Blocks in East Downtown
Handies Douzo offers a variety of fresh handrolls, like its new Masutoro Handroll with masu belly, garlic aioli, basil, fried shallots, pickled red onions, cucumber, and nikiri. (Image Credit: Handies Douzo Facebook)